A television programme aimed at entertaining the public must obtain an artistic license. It also creates a misleading impression that bailiffs possess the authority to forcibly enter residential properties and use physical force, which debt charities warn is causing fear among viewers.
While many cases showcased on the programme lead to legal action, some resulting in claims amounting to as much as £20,000,[1] the production fails to disclose this information to its audience.
The same bailiff featured on the show is facing charges and is awaiting trial at Bromley Magistrates' Court. However, it's doubtful that the programme will air the trial's outcome if the bailiff is convicted.
During filming, a DCBL bailiff mistakenly visited the wrong address accompanied by a television crew, and proceeded to search through the belongings of an innocent couple.[2]
The same bailiff featured on the show is facing charges and is awaiting trial at Bromley Magistrates' Court.[3]
In numerous instances, debtors opt not to engage with the media or pursue legal action for breaches depicted on the programme.
There are discussions underway regarding the creation of a YouTube channel to showcase clips from the show and provide commentary clarifying the legal aspects concerning breaches of enforcement regulations committed by the bailiffs.
[1] Couple filmed being evicted on Channel 5 TV show win damages. The Guardian
[2] Bailiff rifles through innocent couple’s drawers after being given wrong address. The Sun
[3] R v Gary Paul Brown, South London Magistrates’ Court August 2020
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